Shōichirō Sakai, a prominent mathematician born in 1928 in Japan, is the author of "C*-Algebras and W*-Algebras," originally published in 1971. The book is a comprehensive treatise on operator algebras, focusing on C*-algebras and W*-algebras. Sakai's work is part of the "Classics in Mathematics" series by Springer-Verlag. The book begins with an introduction to the theory of operator algebras, tracing its origins back to von Neumann's foundational work in 1929. It highlights the importance of these algebras in various fields, including quantum mechanics, abstract ring theory, and functional analysis. The content is divided into two main parts: the general theory of C*-algebras and W*-algebras, and the classification and representation theory of W*-algebras. Key topics include the definitions and properties of C*-algebras and W*-algebras, their topologies, ideals, and representations. The book also delves into the classification of W*-algebras, including the study of factors, traces, and tensor products. Special topics such as derivations, automorphisms, and examples of factors are covered in detail. Sakai's work is noted for its depth and personal focus, reflecting his own research interests and contributions to the field. The book is a valuable resource for mathematicians and physicists interested in operator algebras and their applications.Shōichirō Sakai, a prominent mathematician born in 1928 in Japan, is the author of "C*-Algebras and W*-Algebras," originally published in 1971. The book is a comprehensive treatise on operator algebras, focusing on C*-algebras and W*-algebras. Sakai's work is part of the "Classics in Mathematics" series by Springer-Verlag. The book begins with an introduction to the theory of operator algebras, tracing its origins back to von Neumann's foundational work in 1929. It highlights the importance of these algebras in various fields, including quantum mechanics, abstract ring theory, and functional analysis. The content is divided into two main parts: the general theory of C*-algebras and W*-algebras, and the classification and representation theory of W*-algebras. Key topics include the definitions and properties of C*-algebras and W*-algebras, their topologies, ideals, and representations. The book also delves into the classification of W*-algebras, including the study of factors, traces, and tensor products. Special topics such as derivations, automorphisms, and examples of factors are covered in detail. Sakai's work is noted for its depth and personal focus, reflecting his own research interests and contributions to the field. The book is a valuable resource for mathematicians and physicists interested in operator algebras and their applications.